The "Norfolk Trash" element is very real... my wife and I talk about it all the time whenever the news reports on local politics. I grew up in VA Beach (Plaza) but have lived in Norfolk for most of my professional career. From the view over here in Berkley, Virginia Beach definitely makes a lot of head scratching moves that atleast make you think about an elitest attitude or the Norfolk Element perception. If VA Beach had hopped on board earlier, instead of turning up their noses to easier access to their "protected" suburban utopia, we could've had rail down to the oceanfront by now at a much cheaper rate. That being said, I hope they do the right thing for the benefit of the region and not just for VA Beach... Welcome back Russ!

I'm with you on 8a... I like the idea of connecting Military Circle, Janaf, NIA, Wards Corner, and the Naval Base. There's potential for a revitalization of Wards Corner as an "Uptown" area with the rail passing through. The stretch between the airport and Wards Corner would be kinda dead unless developments were to sprout up around the train stations. As far as the West End is concerned, I'm indecisive as to favor 2a or 3a. 2a would connect ODU with EVMS (wouldn't that merger be great) and 3a would incorporate Ghent's 21st street. Both would get me to work (ODU) without having to transfer from train to bus

Disagree with you there CarolinaBoy... an annual rivalry contest between ODU and NSU would be great for the city of Norfolk ($$). Give them something to play for (like a Mayor's cup, or an Oyster Bowl perhaps) and you set the stage for exactly what the "higher level programs" have... an intra-state/city trophy. It could be a lasting relationship even if one school is FBS and the other is FCS (which do exist).